Horan’s talk, “A Franciscan in Blue Jeans: How Thomas Merton Became and Remained a True Franciscan,” will take place at 4:30 p.m. at the University Chapel in Doyle Hall.

Horan will speak of Merton’s time at St. Bonaventure and the role of the Franciscan tradition in Merton’s life, even after he entered the Trappist Order. He will also address the deep-seated Franciscan philosophical and theological foundations of Merton’s life, thought, and writings.

Horan graduated from St. Bonaventure University in 2005 and is pursuing a doctorate in theology at Boston College. He has published both scholarly and popular articles, including the much talked about “Dating God: Live and Love in the Way of St. Francis (2012).” He serves on the board of directors of the International Thomas Merton Society and writes the blog “Dating God.”

The Ignatius Brady Lecture is free and open to the public and is sponsored by the Franciscan Institute at St. Bonaventure University.

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About the University: The nation’s first Franciscan university, St. Bonaventure University cultivates graduates who are confident and creative communicators, collaborative leaders and team members, and innovative problem solvers who are respectful of themselves, others, and the diverse world around them. We are establishing pathways to internships, graduate schools and careers in the context of our renowned liberal arts tradition. Our students are becoming extraordinary.